This is my McCormick Story...
04-20-2022
By Brenda Boykins – Montgomery
Which McCormick tradition/practice/activity/ policy are you most proud of?
My favorite McCormick tradition is table fellowship. The food is always wonderful and the setting is always inviting. Food and conversation automatically create community. McCormick’s table fellowship should never be missed because it’s good for the body and the soul.
What’s your most difficult in-seminary memory? What happened and did you learn anything from it?
I had a couple of semesters where I would start classes, but couldn’t finish. I was tired and couldn’t write. I was blessed to have excellent academic advisors who helped me refocus and kept me encouraged. Thanks to them, I am finishing my seminary journey this year.
What is your memorable McCormick event?
McCormick always has the most wonderful guest speakers. I had the opportunity to hear Rev. Dr. Renita Weems, one of my favorite authors, and chat with her afterwards. I felt like I was in Heaven on Earth. And I have a photo to prove it (I am such a fan!!).
What was the most enjoyable book you had to read for seminary work?
The most enjoyable book that I read for seminary work was Jonah’s Gourd Vine by Zora Neale Hurston. It was assigned for Prof. Reggie Williams’ Harlem Renaissance Theology course. Hurston is a magnificent storyteller. I couldn’t put the book down. I saw God at work in every chapter.
What was your favorable class and why?
My choice for favorite class is a tie between Preaching with Celebration taught by Professor Frank Thomas and Environmental Leadership and Ministry taught by Professors Anna Case-Winters and Ted Hiebert. Dr. Thomas demystifies the process for preparing and delivering effective sermons. Drs. Case-Winters and Hiebert gave us the tools to help make environmental stewards of the members of our congregations and our communities. I heartily recommend both classes.
In retrospect, do you think the expectations you had when you were joining seminary have been met?
I have received more than I expected. When I came to seminary, I expected to come away with an extraordinary amount of Bible knowledge. I did get that, but I also got so much more. I’ve learned about the many different theologies and faith traditions that bring richness and vitality to our worship life.
What is your advice to the continuing students?
The advice I would offer to continuing students is the advice that a caring individual gave to Supreme Court nominee Judge Ketanji Brown Jackson – persevere. You are not in seminary by accident. God brought you here to fulfill God’s purpose for your life. The way will not be easy, but if you trust God and persevere, you will reach your goal.
Any parting shot?
Coming to McCormick is one of the best decisions that I have ever made. I entered enthusiastic about the possibility of a career serving the Lord. As I prepare to graduate, I am excited to see what the Lord has in store. Thanks to my McCormick preparation, I am confident that I have the resources I need to be an effective faith leader for God’s people.
Photo by Debby Hudson on Unsplash
Brenda Boykins – Montgomery, MDiv class of 2022